The latest Dragon Ball fighting game has launched with a resounding bang, proving that the power of nostalgia is still a potent force in the gaming industry. Bandai Namco’s Dragon Ball Sparking! ZERO, the first sequel to the legendary Dragon Ball Z: BUDOKAI TENKAICHI series in over 15 years, has already sold over 3 million units worldwide within its first 24 hours of release, solidifying its place as a major success. This follows a string of successful releases for Bandai Namco, including Tekken 8 in Q4 and Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree in Q1, demonstrating the company’s ability to tap into the gaming market’s most popular genres.
This remarkable achievement is unsurprising considering the immense popularity of the Dragon Ball franchise and the success of its previous installment, Budokai Tenkaichi 4, which dominated both the PlayStation Store and Steam. The game’s widespread appeal highlights the enduring love for the Dragon Ball universe, demonstrating that it has firmly established itself as a global phenomenon.
Despite the success of its gaming ventures, Bandai Namco is facing economic pressures, leading to plans to reduce workforce and project spending. However, the company remains optimistic about the Dragon Ball franchise’s future, projecting it to generate almost $1 billion in revenue throughout FY25. This optimistic forecast is based on the franchise’s continued popularity and the potential for future releases to attract new and returning players.
The Dragon Ball franchise’s impact is undeniable, with its highest revenue period occurring in 2020, a year marked by global lockdowns and increased gaming activity. The franchise’s enduring popularity showcases its ability to transcend trends and appeal to a wide audience, solidifying its position as a major player in the gaming industry. The success of Dragon Ball Sparking! ZERO further demonstrates the franchise’s power to captivate audiences and drive sales, ensuring its continued success for years to come.
With the franchise poised for continued growth, Bandai Namco appears to be banking on the Dragon Ball universe to navigate the challenging economic landscape and maintain its position as a leading force in the gaming industry.